Netanyahu orders military airstrikes on southern Gaza

The Israeli prime minister has ordered his military to immediately carry out “powerful” attacks on Gaza. Benjamin Netanyahu made the announcement shortly after Israel said Hamas had opened fire on Israeli forces in southern Gaza.

- DANIEL KEANE, HARRIETTE BOUCHER

Tensions were already high after Israel accused Hamas of breaching the fragile ceasefire agreement by handing back additional remains of hostage Ofir Tzarfati, who had already been recovered and buried in 2023.

The prime minister’s office said the transfer was a “clear violation” of the agreement, which has increasingly come under strain over the return of hostage bodies. Mr Netanyahu subsequently held a security assessment with defence officials to discuss a response.